Realizing One’s Mistake

“Why did you use such words? How can you speak to elders like that?” Grandmother said sternly to Fawad, her tone strict but caring.

“Grandma, what’s wrong with it?” Fawad replied casually, showing a stubborn indifference.

“Don’t talk to me like that. I am your grandmother,” she scolded him, her voice firm yet filled with concern. During the conversation, Fawad’s words became increasingly crude; he began using common slang and disrespectful expressions. His speech, once innocent, had been influenced by the company he kept.

“Alright, Grandma, I won’t say it again,” Fawad said reluctantly, and went outside to play.

After the passing of Fawad’s mother, his grandmother had taken on the responsibility of raising him. She ensured he never felt the absence of a mother’s love. His father, Sohaib, worked tirelessly to provide Fawad with the best education and upbringing possible. Yet, the environment around their home was not ideal. Many neighbors were uneducated and trapped in various moral failings.

Playing with children from this environment had started to leave a profound mark on Fawad. He increasingly preferred games and outdoor fun over studying. Worse, his language had become crude, and he began speaking harshly to his friends, even using abusive words. Grandmother shared these concerns with Sohaib, who became worried about the influence his son was under.

At that time, Fawad was preparing to gain admission into a reputable college. Today was the day of his interview at a well-known institution. With a mix of confidence and nervousness, he entered the principal’s office when his turn arrived. He greeted the principal and answered questions, but during one reply, an inappropriate word slipped out from his mouth. The principal, maintaining composure but clearly displeased, said firmly, “We cannot admit a boy with such poor manners; he would disrupt the environment of our college. You may leave now.”

Hearing this, Fawad left the room, his confidence shattered. On returning home, his grandmother noticed the dejection on his face. She gently placed her hand on his head, her eyes filled with compassion. Overcome by emotion, Fawad confessed everything to her.

“Look, my child,” Grandmother said softly, “if in life we recognize our mistakes and take steps to correct them, that very awareness becomes the guarantee of our success.” Her words were full of warmth, patience, and wisdom. “You can still seek admission at another college. Instead of wasting time in regret, focus on moving forward. Success is waiting for you.”

Her encouragement filled Fawad with hope and resolve. He realized the importance of correcting his mistakes and avoiding the negative influences that had shaped his recent behavior. With humility, he apologized to his grandmother and promised that he would distance himself from bad company. He vowed to speak politely to everyone, whether young or old, and to conduct himself with dignity.

From that day onward, Fawad became more mindful of his words and actions. He understood that acknowledging one’s faults and making a sincere effort to improve is not just a moral duty—it is a stepping stone toward personal growth and success. With guidance from his grandmother and the support of his father, he focused on his studies, refined his manners, and regained the trust of those around him.

Through this experience, Fawad learned that the first step to success is self-awareness. Recognizing one’s mistakes, feeling genuine remorse, and taking practical measures to correct them can transform setbacks into opportunities for growth. His story became a small but meaningful lesson in humility, responsibility, and the transformative power of correcting one’s errors.

Indeed, life rewards those who learn from their mistakes and act to improve themselves.